Dogs are unable to communicate with you directly what ails them. As a responsible pet owner, you should always observe your dog’s behavior. A deviation from your canine pet’s normal ways of doing things can be an indication that something could be wrong with your furry friend that you should address.

Common Symptoms of Sickness on Dogs

Watch out for these symptoms commonly observed with dogs that indicate they might be sick.

1. Vomiting or diarrhea
   If your dog vomits multiple times in 24 hours or experiences diarrhea, these symptoms indicate conditions that include viral or bacterial infections, which can be serious or life-threatening.

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2. Loss of appetite
   Your dog’s loss of appetite or anorexia may indicate dental disease, especially when associated with bad breath. Be alarmed if the problem lasts more than a day and comes with other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and weakness.

3. Too little or excessive water intake
   Drinking too little water can mean your pet is not feeling well while drinking too much can indicate that your dog has a fever, diabetes, hormone issues, or kidney disease.

4. Sudden weight loss or gain
   Have your dog evaluated to find the underlying cause of unexplained weight gain or loss. It may be caused by a variety of conditions.

5. Changes in personality
   Decreased activity, lethargy, aggression, and other non-normal behaviors are often displayed by dogs that are in pain or don’t feel well.

6. Coughing, wheezing, sneezing labored breathing
   These actions are symptoms of a respiratory problem and can be signs that your pet may have a simple cold to kennel cough, canine flu, or heart failure.

7. Hair loss and/or itchy skin
   Alopecia and persistent itching can be caused by fleas, skin infections, or allergies and brings discomfort to your dog.

8. Stiffness, lameness, or difficulty rising
   Limping or difficulty walking can be caused by arthritis, joint problems, hip dysplasia, infections, or a broken bone.

9. Eye changes
   Symptoms such as dry, red, cloudy squinting, or closed eyes can be signs of conditions that can range from a mild infection to glaucoma or ulceration.

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10. Lumps below the skin
    The majority of lumps are benign (not cancerous) fatty tumors. Fewer than half of the lumps and bumps you find on a dog are cancerous. However, they can look the same from the outside, so it is difficult to tell. If you aren’t sure about the cause of a lump or bump, you should take your dog to the vet. You should schedule an appointment even sooner if you notice fast growth, redness, swelling, pus, or if the dog is in pain.

What You Should Do if Your Dog is Sick

If your dog shows these symptoms and other telltale signs of being ill, you should immediately bring your pet to the veterinarian who will suggest the right course of action for your best friend. It is important to notice the early symptoms as soon as possible. Preventing disease in its earlier stages will make treatment easier, help you avoid significant medical expenses, and prolong your canine pet’s life.

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